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International Bipolar Foundation

Our Mission

The mission of International Bipolar Foundation is to eliminate Bipolar Disorder through the advancement of research; to promote and enhance care and support services; and to erase associated stigma through public education.



Activity

  • International Bipolar Foundation
    International Bipolar Foundation answered:
    Are there side effects with bipolar medications?
    Each medication or combination of medications for bipolar disorder has its pros and cons, upsides and downsides, risks and benefits. Different medications or combinations of medications may be warranted in different circumstances at different times. Each medication may have an unwanted effect...  Full Post
  • International Bipolar Foundation
    International Bipolar Foundation answered:
    What are risks of substance use disorder if I am bipolar?
    If you have bipolar disorder and a substance use disorder, you are more likely to have:
    • poor adherence with treatment
    • more frequent and severe depressed, manic, or hypomanic episodes
    • longer episodes
    • more mixed state episodes and rapid cycling (which are hardest to treat)
    • more sleep i
    ...  Full Post
  • Ellen Frudakis
    Ellen Frudakis of International Bipolar Foundation answered:
    What are some benefits of social interaction?
    Some of the many benefits of ongoing social interaction are:
    • A feeling of acceptance
    • The possibility for friendship
    • An increase in self-esteem
    • A chance to have fun
    • Access to social support when needed
     Full Post
  • Ellen Frudakis
    Ellen Frudakis of International Bipolar Foundation answered:
    Why is social interaction difficult for people with bipolar disorder?
    Despite how simple it may seem to some, finding a way to create meaningful connections can be difficult for those with bipolar disorder. This is particularly true in the beginning stages of restoring a sense of balance in your life. Sometimes it may feel like the cards are stacked against...  Full Post
  • Ellen Frudakis
    Ellen Frudakis of International Bipolar Foundation answered:
    Can mania affect the relationships of people with bipolar disorder?
    The effects of mania on relationships can appear different depending on whom you talk to -- the person with bipolar disorder or the person without it. For example, when I was manic I thought I was much more fun to be around. But to others, possibly, my presence was a whirlwind of confusing...  Full Post
  • Ellen Frudakis
    Ellen Frudakis of International Bipolar Foundation answered:
    Do people with mental illness have lower income?
    Many of the people I know with mental illness have a lower level of income compared to others without the disorder. This may be because they have had to go on disability due to the severity of their symptoms, or if they are able to work, sometimes they cannot work full-time. This limits the...  Full Post
  • Ellen Frudakis
    Ellen Frudakis of International Bipolar Foundation answered:
    How can media affect people's perception of mental illness?
    With the exception of a few movies, television shows, and an occasional personal interest story in the press, people with mental illness are generally portrayed negatively in the media. For people with mental illnesses, being portrayed in public as "dangerous," "irresponsible," "unreliable,"...  Full Post
  • Ellen Frudakis
    Ellen Frudakis of International Bipolar Foundation answered:
    How can I cope with stress if I have bipolar disorder?
    Stress is like lighter fluid for the fire that is bipolar disorder. Stress puts pressure on a system that is prone to ups and downs. That is why people with bipolar disorder have to be careful during periods of high stress and make sure they are getting the support they need, or limiting situations...  Full Post
  • Ellen Frudakis
    Ellen Frudakis of International Bipolar Foundation answered:
    Can my bipolar disorder affect my social life?
    When your ability to function gets handicapped by bipolar disorder, it can affect your lifestyle, making the usual meeting places for meeting people less likely to occur in your life. Common ways of meeting new people include work, school, or through other friends. As an individual begins...  Full Post
  • Ellen Frudakis
    Ellen Frudakis of International Bipolar Foundation answered:
    What mental health communities can help me cope with bipolar disorder?
    If you are insecure about being around others because you worry that they won't understand your bipolar disorder, or if you are still experiencing symptoms that make it difficult to connect with others, try reaching out to mental health communities first. This can be less intimidating.

    ...  Full Post
  • Ellen Frudakis
    Ellen Frudakis of International Bipolar Foundation answered:
    What online resources can help me if I have bipolar disorder?
    For some people with bipolar disorder, one of the easiest and least intimidating ways to put themselves out there is to take advantage of what the Internet has to offer. If you don't have your own computer, most libraries offer community computers that you can use free of charge.
    • Online
    ...  Full Post
  • Ellen Frudakis
    Ellen Frudakis of International Bipolar Foundation answered:
    How can in-person support groups help me cope with mental illness?
    Whether the in-person support group is led by a therapist or is a peer-support model, either can be good for you in multiple ways. First, they get you out of the house and around others. Second, they give you a chance to get support and understanding for what you are going through from people...  Full Post
  • Ellen Frudakis
    Ellen Frudakis of International Bipolar Foundation answered:
    What are mental health clubhouses?
    Mental health clubhouses are places where people with mental illness can go during the day to find support and structure. Some have support groups and social activities. Others offer job rehabilitation programs and job placement. Many times lunch is available for a minimal fee. Two of these...  Full Post
  • Ellen Frudakis
    Ellen Frudakis of International Bipolar Foundation answered:
    How can I improve my social life if I have bipolar disorder?
    Here are some ways to improve your social life if you have bipolar disorder:
    • Parks and Recreation Clubs -- Some communities have parks and recreation departments that focus on providing fun activities in their area. Some even offer specific programs just for people with disabilities.
    • Volunteer
    ...  Full Post
  • International Bipolar Foundation
    International Bipolar Foundation answered:
    Can relationships affect mental health?
    We human beings are naturally social creatures. Interacting and connecting with others is a vital part of our wellbeing, and neglecting our relationships can in turn be detrimental to our mental health. Those who are already inclined to emotional reactivity and behavioral complications have...  Full Post